Many online guides on Mt Kilimanjaro mention that, despite the mountain being the tallest in Africa, it is relatively easy to climb. You may find this surprising, but it is true, Kilimanjaro is a walkers’ mountain. You can trek all the way to Uhuru Peak, Kilimanjaro’s highest summit, without using any special mountaineering equipment, even if you have no previous mountain climbing experience.

But, much as it considered an easy climb, you would only underrate the challenge the mountain gives you at your own risk. I climbed the mountain once, and I know it takes a lot of mental endurance to make it to the top. You can read about my experience at my blog here.

Based on personal experience and what I have gathered elsewhere, below are some practical tips to help you enjoy your climb and increase your chances of making it to the roof of Africa.

1. Physical fitness:
You don’t have to be super fit, but it’d help if you did some aerobic exercises and endurance training for a few weeks before the actual climb. These will help you cope with some of the main challenges of climbing Kilimanjaro, such as the long treks and the thin air (as a result of the altitude). Simple exercises like steep-terrain hiking, distance cycling, and running for example, can help build your endurance and stamina for the climb.